Evolution of a Mascot
Pepperdine Magazine is the feature magazine for Pepperdine University and its growing community of alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends.
1945 to 1950
Roland appeared first in print in the Graphic in 1945. His name is derived from the classic Pepperdine cheer, 鈥淩oll on, you Waves!鈥�
1951
Students proposed that Joe the Pelican become the University mascot in an article
printed in the Graphic in 1951.
1952 to 1972
"Willie the Wave" made his official debut at a George Pepperdine College sporting event.
1972 to 1992
The second iteration of Willie was nicknamed 鈥渢he Fur Ball,鈥� 鈥渢he Hairy Smurf,鈥� and
鈥淥ld Carpethead.鈥�
1992 to 1996
The third iteration of Willie was sometimes referred to as 鈥淢ac Tonight.鈥�
1996 to 2003
King Neptune was first introduced at Midnight Madness in October 1996.
Following three mascot-less years,
Willie the Wave returned to Pepperdine on October 21, 2006, at 鈥淢adness Entourage鈥�
at Firestone Fieldhouse. Present-day Willie is bedecked in a blue-and-white floral
shirt, orange shorts, a pair of orange flip-flop sandals, and a tidal wave of school
spirit.